Fever, Chills, Body Aches, Headache, Fatigue But No Cough

Summary

Feeling unwell with fever, chills, and body aches – but no cough – can be confusing. While a cough is often linked with the flu or respiratory infections, there are other reasons you may feel this way.

Possible Causes of Fever, Aches, and Fatigue Without Cough

Several conditions can cause fever, tiredness, and body aches even if you don't have a cough:

• Viral infections (not always flu): Some viruses, including the flu, can cause fever, fatigue, and body aches without affecting the lungs.
• Bacterial infections: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can lead to fever, chills, and aches, especially if the infection spreads to the kidneys. Bacterial gastroenteritis can also cause similar symptoms.
• Gastro infections: Stomach bugs may cause fever, body aches, and tiredness without respiratory symptoms.
• COVID-19: While cough is common, some people mainly experience fever, headache, body aches, and fatigue.
• Meningitis: Both viral and bacterial meningitis should be considered if fever and headache are present, especially with neck stiffness or rash.
• Autoimmune conditions: Flare-ups of lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or other inflammatory conditions can mimic flu-like symptoms.
• Medication reactions: Certain drugs may trigger fever and body aches as side effects.
• Stress and anxiety: Physical symptoms such as fatigue and aches can sometimes be linked to psychological stress or anxiety.

Common Symptoms Explained

• Fever: A fever indicates that the body is fighting off an infection. The doctor will consider how high the fever is and how long it has lasted.
• Chills: Often accompanying a fever, chills can be a sign of a bacterial or viral infection.
• Body Aches: Generalised body aches can be due to viral illnesses, but they can also be a result of stress, fatigue, or even certain medications.
• Headache: The type (e.g., throbbing, constant, intermittent) and location of the headache provide clues. It could be related to tension, migraines, or other underlying conditions.
• Neck stiffness: This may reflect an irritation in the lining around the brain due to an infection, as with meningitis, for example
• Rash: A distinctive 'petechial' or pin-prick style rash could also be a sign of a meningococcal infection
• Fatigue: Persistent fatigue, even with adequate rest, can be indicative of a range of conditions, from anaemia to chronic fatigue syndrome.

How Common is it in Australia?

• Many Aussies each year experience viral illnesses with fever and aches, but without a cough.
• UTIs are very common, especially in women – around 1 in 2 women will have one at some point.
• Seasonal flu usually includes a cough, but not everyone gets it, so it's not unusual to have flu-like illness without coughing.

What to Expect During Consultation

• Your GP will ask about your symptoms, medical history, recent travel, and any medications.
• A physical exam may include checking your temperature, blood pressure, and listening to your chest.
• You might need tests such as a urine test, a blood test, or a swab to rule out flu or COVID-19.

When to Call the Doctor

• If your fever lasts more than 2–3 days
• If you feel worsening body aches or headache
• If you notice burning when urinating (possible UTI)
• If you have severe fatigue or can't keep fluids down

When to Go to the Emergency Room

• Fever over 39.5°C that won't come down
• Severe headache with neck stiffness or confusion (possible meningitis)
• Shortness of breath, chest pain, or rapid heart rate
• Severe abdominal or back pain
• Signs of dehydration (not passing urine, dizziness, dry mouth)

Why Choose Hola Health for Care If you're feeling ill with fever, aches, headache, or fatigue but no cough, Hola Health is one click away for medical support from anywhere in Australia:

• Our online doctors suggest professional advice without leaving your house.
• If you need medication for infections, pain relief, or inflammation, Hola Health's online doctor can send scripts immediately.
• We also give specialist referrals for tests or specialist care if needed (e.g., urine tests, blood tests, or seeing a specialist).
• Get a medical certificate through telehealth if you are feeling sick

With Hola Health, you can access trusted Australian doctors in minutes, saving time and avoiding waiting rooms while ensuring you get the care you need.

FAQ

Can you have the flu without a cough?

Yes, some people mainly get fever, fatigue, and body aches. A cough isn't always present.

Do chills mean a fever is breaking?

Not always. Chills often happen when your body is trying to raise its temperature to fight infection.

Can you have a fever and headache but no other symptoms?

Yes. Sometimes infections start with just fever and headache before other symptoms show.

What mimics flu symptoms?

COVID-19, UTIs, glandular fever, autoimmune flare-ups, and even stress or poor sleep can mimic the flu.

Why does my body ache, and I feel tired and headache, and a fever?

This is usually your immune system fighting infection. Inflammation chemicals cause aching and tiredness.

Can lack of sleep cause flu-like symptoms?

Yes. Poor sleep weakens the immune system, leaving you drained and achy, but it doesn't usually cause a fever.